Creating Beautiful Candles Sustainably

There is something magical about the soft glow of a candle flickering in a quiet room. It invites calm, warmth and a gentle pause in our busy lives. But have you ever wondered how to create that magic in a way that honors the earth? Making candles sustainably is not just a craft; it’s a mindful act of love for yourself and the planet. Today, I want to share with you the art of sustainable candle making techniques that blend beauty, care and responsibility.

Embracing Sustainable Candle Making Techniques

When I first started exploring candle making, I was drawn to the idea of crafting something beautiful with my own hands. But soon I realised that the materials and methods I chose mattered deeply. Sustainable candle making techniques focus on using natural, renewable resources and minimizing waste. This means selecting waxes, wicks and fragrances that are kind to the environment and your health.

For example, instead of paraffin wax, which is petroleum-based and releases toxins when burned, I turned to soy wax or beeswax. These options are biodegradable and burn cleaner. Soy wax, derived from soybeans, supports farmers and is renewable. Beeswax, harvested responsibly, carries a subtle honey scent and purifies the air as it burns.

Choosing cotton or wooden wicks instead of synthetic ones also makes a difference. Wooden wicks create a soft crackling sound, adding to the sensory experience, while cotton wicks are natural and burn evenly.

And what about fragrances? Essential oils are my go-to. They come from plants and flowers, offering pure, natural scents without harmful chemicals. Lavender, eucalyptus, and lemongrass are favorites that bring calm and freshness to any space.

By weaving these choices together, you create candles that are not only beautiful but also gentle on the earth.

The Heart of Eco-Friendly Candle Making

If you want to dive deeper into eco-friendly candle making, it’s important to think beyond just ingredients. The entire process, from sourcing to packaging, should reflect sustainability.

Start by sourcing your materials locally when possible. This reduces carbon footprints and supports small businesses. For instance, buying beeswax from local beekeepers ensures ethical harvesting and helps maintain bee populations.

Next, consider your containers. Reusable or recyclable jars, like glass or metal tins, are perfect. You can even repurpose old jars from your kitchen, giving them a new life as candle holders. This reduces waste and adds a personal touch.

When it comes to packaging, avoid plastic. Use recycled paper, twine, or fabric wraps. These small details show care and respect for the environment and your customers.

Finally, think about the energy you use during candle making. Natural light, hand tools and minimal electricity keep your process eco-friendly and mindful.

By embracing these sustainable habits, you create a cycle of care that extends from your hands to the earth.

What is the 84 Rule for Candles?

You might have heard about the 84 rule in candle making, a simple guideline that helps balance fragrance and wax for the best burn and scent throw. The rule states that the total weight of wax and fragrance should equal 84 grams per 100 ml of container volume.

Why 84? It’s a sweet spot that ensures your candle burns evenly without being too weak or overpowering. If you add too much fragrance, the candle might not burn properly or could produce smoke. Too little and the scent will be faint.

Here’s how you can apply it:

1. Measure your container’s volume in milliliters.

2. Multiply by 0.84 to get the total grams of wax and fragrance.

3. Decide on your fragrance load, usually between 6% to 10% of the wax weight.

4. Calculate the wax weight and fragrance weight accordingly.

   
   

For example, if your jar holds 120 ml, multiply 120 by 0.84 = 100.8 grams total. If you want 8% fragrance, fragrance weight = 8% of wax weight. Wax weight + fragrance weight = 100.8 grams. Solve for wax weight and fragrance weight.

This rule helps you create candles that smell divine and burn beautifully, a perfect harmony of science and art.

Practical Tips for Sustainable Candle Making at Home

Starting your sustainable candle making journey can feel overwhelming, but it’s easier than you think. Here are some practical tips to guide you:

• Choose natural waxes: Beeswax or coconut wax are excellent choices, be careful with soy wax.

• Select eco-friendly wicks: Cotton or wooden wicks are best.

• Use fragrance oils: Avoid essential fragrances for a safe burn.

• Repurpose containers: Look around your home for jars or tins.

• Recycle packaging: Use paper, fabric, or biodegradable materials.

• Work in small batches: This reduces waste and keeps your candles fresh.

• Label your candles: Include ingredients and burn instructions to educate others.

• Clean up naturally: Use vinegar and baking soda instead of harsh chemicals.

  
  

Remember, every small step counts. Making candles sustainably is a journey of learning and loving the process.

Lighting Up Your Space with Mindful Craft

There is a special joy in lighting a candle you made with care. The soft glow, the gentle scent, the knowledge that it was created with respect for nature - all combine to create a nurturing atmosphere.

Sustainable candle making is more than a hobby. It’s a way to slow down, connect with your creativity and honor the earth. It invites you to be present, to appreciate the little things, and to share warmth with those around you.

So, why not start today? Gather your materials, breathe in the natural scents and let your hands create something beautiful and kind. Your home will thank you, and so will the planet.

May your candles burn bright and your heart stay full.

If you want to explore more about natural, handcrafted home and body care products that align with these values, check out All We Dream. They are lighting the way for mindful living in India, one beautiful product at a time.